If you've been searching for a Tri-Pacer

This beautifully flying 1953 Piper PA-22 has been upgraded where it matters most. Equipped with a 150 HP Lycoming O-320, it delivers the performance these airplanes always deserved-strong climb, better cruise, and the confidence to operate comfortably in real-world conditions. Paired with metalized wings, this aircraft eliminates one of the biggest concerns in legacy fabric airplanes, giving you durability, peace of mind, and long-term value.

With 3168 total time and a healthy 773 SMOH, this airplane is actively flying and ready to go. It starts easy, runs smooth, and flies exactly how a good short-wing Piper should-honest, stable, and fun. Whether you're looking for a dependable weekend flyer, a backcountry-capable machine, or a time-builder with personality, this aircraft checks the boxes.

The panel is straightforward and functional, keeping things simple and reliable, while the interior and exterior present as clean and serviceable-an excellent balance between usability and value without paying for unnecessary cosmetics.

Tri-Pacers like this-with both the 150 HP upgrade AND metal wings-are increasingly hard to find. This is a rare opportunity to own a significantly improved version of a classic aircraft without stepping into the price range of newer platforms.

Turn-key, flying, and ready for its next owner.
Avionics / Equipment
Clean, simple, reliable panel
Basic VFR configuration
Ideal platform for future upgrades or keep-it-simple flying

Airframe:
1953 Piper PA-22 Tri-Pacer
Total Time: 3168 TT
Metalized Wings (major upgrade - durability & reduced maintenance)
Actively flying / in annual
Straight, honest airframe
Clean, classic short-wing Piper handling
All logs
4-place configuration

Engines:
Lycoming O-320 (150 HP conversion)
773 SMOH
Strong running engine with excellent performance for this airframe
Easy starts, smooth operation
Significant performance upgrade over stock 135 HP models

Clean and serviceable

Presents well, classic appearance
Fabric fuselage in good usable condition

Remarks:
Overall: Honest airplane-not over-restored, not worn out

150 HP performance + metal wings = highly desirable combination
Lower ownership risk vs fabric-wing aircraft
Great useful load and short-field capability
Excellent time-builder or weekend flyer
Simple systems = low operating cost
Rare upgraded Tri-Pacer configuration